The Seven Continents by Private Jet: A Journey Around the World Including Antarctica

Arrive in New Orleans and settle into your luxurious hotel, a riverside sanctuary, close to the French Quarter and overlooking the Mississippi in downtown New Orleans. After time to relax, meet fellow travelers, your Smithsonian Journeys Expert, and your tour staff for a festive welcome reception and dinner. During dessert and coffee, enjoy an overview of what’s ahead on your incredible journey to the seven continents. (R,D)

Board your first flight by private jet and fly to South America, in the coastal town of Pisco, Peru. From here, board a chartered flight to Cusco, a charming Andean city where Inca and Spanish colonial cultures intertwine. Settle into your historic hotel in the heart of the World Heritage-listed old town.

If you wish, pay an early morning visit to Ollantaytambo, an Andean village flanked by the terraced ruins of an Inca fortress-temple where the Spanish lost a major battle in 1537. Then step aboard a private train and enjoy sumptuous dining and white-glove service as you wind your way along the Urubamba River toward Machu Picchu. In the company of private guides, explore the temples and dwellings of this 15th-century Inca citadel perched dramatically among Andean peaks. Gain insight into the site’s purpose and significance and learn about the impressive engineering feats involved in its construction.

During a final day in Cusco, visit the Plaza de Armas and the Convent of Santo Domingo, built atop the ruins of Koricancha, once the city’s most important Inca temple. Tour the nearby fortress of Sacsayhuaman, an incredible example of Inca stone masonry, and travel to a mountain village to witness a demonstration by a master Andean weaver.

Alternate: If you have already traveled to Machu Picchu or are sensitive to altitude, stay in Pisco and set out to discover the Paracas National Reserve, which comprises stunning coastal desert and important marine habitats and harbors one of the highest concentration of seabirds anywhere in the world. Weather permitting, take a scenic flight over the storied Nazca Lines, a World Heritage site where enormous geoglyphs were etched into the desert floor some 2,000 years ago. Enjoy a Paso horse show and a tasting of pisco, Peru’s signature spirit. (B,L,D daily)

Fly to remote Easter Island, catching sight of the verdant volcanic island as you approach, isolated in the vast blue of the Pacific. The island is home to the mysterious moai, massive stone statues left by the lost Rapa Nui civilization. In Hanga Roa encounter Ahu Tahai, a site of three restored moai, and explore the Rano Raraku quarry where almost 400 giant statues remain in various stages of completion, offering fascinating insights into how these mysterious icons may have been created. If you wish, rise early for a photography class and capture images of the moai at sunrise. Visit the sacred site of Ahu Akivi, and learn about the dangerous but prestigious “birdman” competition that was held at the Orongo ceremonial village. (B,L,D daily)

Continue across the Pacific to Tahiti, where swaying palm trees, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters greet you upon arrival. Embark on a harbor cruise aboard a catamaran (weather permitting) or explore the lagoon by private boat. Enjoy time at leisure to walk on the beach or take a dip in the hotel pool, or opt for one of the many water sports available through your resort. Gather for a festive dinner this evening. (B,L,D daily)

Fly west from Tahiti, crossing the international date line and losing a day. Land in Cairns, on Australia’s northeast coast, and follow the shores of the Coral Sea to your stunning lodge nestled in the Daintree Rainforest. You’ll have your choice of two programs while here. Ride a private boat to the Great Barrier Reef for an opportunity to snorkel or dive (certification required) among the colorful corals and tropical fish of this World Heritage site, which stretches for over 1,600 miles, comprising some 3,000 reefs and 900 islands.

Or experience the wonders of the ancient Daintree Rainforest, also a World Heritage site and one of the oldest surviving tropical rainforests in the world. Explore the intersection of nature and spirituality during a dreamtime walk in Mossman Gorge, a sanctuary of rare and exotic flora and fauna that has been inhabited by the indigenous Kuku Yalanji people for some 50,000 years. (B,L,D daily)

Your next flight brings you to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to Angkor, the capital of the powerful Khmer Empire from the ninth to the 15th centuries. Your hotel is just a few miles from Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious structure built from stone. This magnificent site boasts advanced urban planning, with extensive water features and impressive monuments. You’ll have the option to tour the temple complex in the early morning to beat the heat of the day, and meet with monks at a Buddhist monastery. Alternatively, explore this World Heritage site after breakfast and discover why it is also known as “the city of temples.” At Bayon Temple, once the center of Jayavarman VII’s capital city, marvel at the intricate decorations and carvings.

During your stay in Cambodia, you’ll also have the opportunity to take a boat tour of the fascinating floating villages of the Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake; visit the red sandstone temples of Banta Srei; ride through the countryside on a Vespa tour, seeing farms, villages, and age-old stupas; or browse local wares in the bustling alleyways of Siem Reap’s markets. Alternatively, see elephants in Kulen Forest or trace the fascinating story of the “hero rats” that were trained to clear landmines laid during Cambodia’s civil war. If you wish, enjoy a Khmer cooking class and an evening foodie tour of Siem Reap. (B,L,D daily)

Board the private jet for your flight to Agra, India, home to one of architecture’s greatest masterpieces: the Taj Mahal. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this beautiful monument in the 17th century as a tribute to the memory of his beloved second wife. Explore this enchanting work of marble and inlaid gemstones, which incorporates and expands on Persian, Hindu, and Islamic styles, and take in views of the majestic site from your nearby hotel. Choose to visit the Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri, named a World Heritage site for its exquisite Mughal architecture; then trace Agra’s rich culture and history on a visit to Agra Fort, built by the first Mughal emperor in the 16th century. The site evolved into an imperial city when Agra was the capital of the Mughal empire, and palaces, mosques, and public halls were built inside its enormous sandstone walls. Later, visit the Itmad-Ud-Daulah tomb, also known as the “Baby Taj,” and learn about the culture of the Harijan people of Kachhpura village. (B,L,D daily)

Fly on to tropical Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous archipelago just off Tanzania’s coast. In its seaside capital, Stone Town, Swahili culture mingles with strong Arabian and Indian influences, speaking to a colorful history of conquest and trade across the Indian Ocean. Explore the labyrinthine lanes of this World Heritage site on a walking tour, discovering hidden courtyards and beautifully carved wooden doors and visiting the Old Fort and the town’s spice market. Venture to Jozani Forest to spot wildlife including red colobus monkeys and tree-dwelling hyrax, and shop for produce at Darajani market before learning to make Swahili dishes during a cooking class. If you wish, visit the childhood home of singer Freddie Mercury, who was born on the island to Parsi-Indian parents. Board a wooden dhow for a sail to Prison Island, a tiny, idyllic isle that is home to a colonial prison that never held any inmates. Here, pay a visit to a sanctuary for rare Aldabra tortoises and enjoy a chance to snorkel the surrounding reefs. Take in sunset views as you sail back to Stone Town this evening. (B,L,D daily)

Your next private jet flight brings you to Cape Town, your gateway to Antarctica. Stay a night on the Victoria & Albert Waterfront, and gather for an Antarctica briefing the next morning. You’ll be fitted with gear such as a cozy, down over-jacket and warm boots. Then board a privately chartered plane bound for the coldest and oldest continent and touch down one of the world’s only blue ice runways. Experience Antarctica’s mesmerizing, frozen wilderness on your choice of excursion. Venture into a spectacular ice cave with seasoned mountain guides, and witness the hidden beauty inside the ice that few will ever see. Set out on a gentle hike through an unspoiled landscape of glaciers and ice fields, taking in otherworldly views and the peace of profound silence. Or embark on ice safari, exploring the mountains and glaciers of breathtaking Queen Maud Land from the warmth and comfort of a specially designed polar vehicle. Return to Cape Town late this evening. (B,L,D daily)

Please note: Every effort will be made to visit Antarctica, but this stop is weather dependent. If we are unable to make the journey, alternative programming in Cape Town and the surrounding area will be scheduled.

Cradled between dramatic mountains and the sea, Cape Town is a cultural melting pot known for its natural splendor and its compelling history. After a leisurely morning to relax after your Antarctic adventure, discovering the many wonders of the city and its surroundings on a variety of excursions. Ascend by cable car to the top of Table Mountain to walk the trails, take in sweeping city views, and discover unusual flora and fauna. Ride a helicopter to the Cape of Good Hope, Africa’s south and westernmost point, enjoying an aerial perspective on the magnificent sea cliffs and mountains of the Cape Peninsula. Then stop to see the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Trace the life story of Nelson Mandela at the prison on Robben Island, where he was held for 18 years, and stroll through the colorful Bo Kaap neighborhood, learning about the unique Cape Malay culture. Gather for an exclusive gala dinner at the world-renowned Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art. (B,L,D daily)

Land in the southwest corner of Kenya, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, accompanied by gazelles and zebras, make an annual migration across Masai Mara National Reserve seeking fresh grazing land and water. Embark on a half- or full-day safari in the Masai Mara, a World Heritage site that protects a wealth of flora and fauna, from the “big five”—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffalo— to unusual bird species and many types of antelope. You will also have the opportunity to visit with Maasai in their village to learn about their traditions and get a glimpse of their daily lives. If you wish, opt to soar high above the rolling savanna on a hot-air balloon safari, a truly unforgettable experience. (B,L,D daily)

Travel north to Egypt by private jet, landing first in Luxor, once part of the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes. Visit the extraordinary Temple of Karnak, a sprawling complex of temples, chapels, pylons, and immense pillars that stretches for nearly a mile. In the afternoon, set sail on a delightful cruise on the Nile, then depart for the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of many of Egypt’s legendary pharaohs. Descend into the tombs of Seti I and Tutankhamun, as well as those of Ramses III, IV, and IX.

Then jet on to Cairo to see the Pyramids of Giza, the only remaining site of the original Seven Wonders of the World. In the company of a private guide, gaze up at these breathtaking monuments, gaining insight into their construction and symbolism, and view the enigmatic Sphinx. You’ll also visit the spectacular new Grand Egyptian Museum, a stunning repository for many of Egypt’s most treasured artifacts, including spellbinding collections from the tomb of Tutankhamun. Return to Cairo for the night. (B,L,D daily)

Please note: We are closely monitoring world events. If travel to Egypt is not advisable as the departure date approaches, an alternate visit to the Mediterranean island of Malta and its World Heritage-listed capital of Valetta is planned.

Arrive on your seventh continent, touching down in London on your final flight by private jet. Gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate your epic journey to all seven continents. The next day, catch your independent flight home. (2B,L,D)